Recruitment and Retention Tip Sheet

Recruitment

• The best recruitment tool is an effective program. Word of mouth is your best friend.
• Website—highlight nontrad students and activities in a variety of programs. Provide updates about all programs offered.
• News releases –feature articles about successful participants will encourage others to enroll.
• Letters-to the editor on current appropriate events can include information on the program.
• Networking – use social media to strengthen contacts with businesses, graduates, and the community.
• Radio/TV Public Service announcements.  Create a 30 or 60 second PSA that can be shared with a local station.  Set up an on-air interview for nontrads.
• Career fairs – invite middle students to attend.
• Brochures/Flyers –informational mailings to middle school parents about career nights
• Do informational sessions on career choices for school groups.
• Presentations by successful nontrad persons and for outside groups.
• Provide effective labor market information and career counseling.
• Establish sustainable support services and groups, including mentors, and publicize these. 

Retention

• Meeting students' needs encourages them to stay in programs.
• Certificates for those who complete the program.
• Positive reinforcement for exhibiting appropriate employment skills – attitude, dress, demeanor, professionalism, etc.
• Encourage nontrads to keep in contact with each other (peer networking) for support and friendships.
• Compile a nontrad phone exchange list that encourages peer networking and sharing.
• Alumni group meeting on a regular basis following class sessions.
• Invite nontrad graduates to speak at Orientation or other functions.
• Submit newsletter articles to the home school.
• Support service availability for school and summer activities– childcare, transportation, tools/supplies, tuition, etc.
• Regular contact with program while in training.
• Tutoring assistance for those who have a need.
• Regular financial aid seminars for all types of training.
• Help participant identify one person in their circle who will be supportive of their efforts.
• Mail new nontrad participants in area schools information concerning support services you offer.
• Offer job-shadowing experiences in their field.
• Provide a mentor currently working in their field.
• Provide support group activities combining various nontrad groups.
• Establish a policy to meet with students before they withdraw from a program.